Fortum connects the first solar project of JNNSM Phase-II scheme to the grid

12/31/2014 13:00 EET

2014

31 December 2014: Fortum Finnsurya Energy Pvt Ltd, a subsidiary of a Finland-based utility, has announced that its 10 MW solar PV plant in Madhya Pradesh has just been connected to the grid. It is the first project commissioned under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (JNNSM) Phase II initiative to get grid connection and the first greenfield solar project undertaken by Fortum.

This is Fortum’s second investment in solar energy production in India. The 10MW solar power plant spreads over about 70 acres in Kapeli, Dist. Ujjain. It is expected to be formally inaugurated in early 2015. Fortum has adopted a thin-film CdTe technology with more than 1,25,000 modules mounted on fixed tilt structures and 15 central invertors, which allows for better control of carbon footprint, water use and energy payback time.

"We entered the Indian market to take part in developing clean and green power solutions, which India needs to pursue its economic growth. Our solar plant in Kapeli is another step in that direction. I am particularly proud that we are the first amongst all developers to connect the project to the grid, under JNNSM Phase II.” said Mr. Sanjay Aggarwal, Managing Director, Fortum India. He also commended MNRE & SECI and authorities of Madhya Pradesh, involved in the administrative procedures for quick turnaround on regulatory approvals and grid connection process as well as for their guidance and support.

With the 10 MW solar PV plant in Madhya Pradesh, Fortum has increased its solar portfolio to15 MW and aims to further expand its operations in this area to become a significant solar energy producer through organic and inorganic growth. "Each investment decision needs to be carefully evaluated and its investment rationale has to be based on ground realities and potential return on investment" remarked Mr. Aggarwal as Fortum continues to identify suitable sites to carry forward its mission in India.